Huano Grape Orange vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to individual typing preferences, and two notable contenders in the linear switch category are the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Mannan Pipefish. The Grape Orange is celebrated for its ultra-light 40g actuation force, which offers an exceptionally effortless typing experience, making it ideal for those who spend long hours typing. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45g, combined with a lengthened spring that provides a smooth and polished feel, appealing to casual typists who desire comfort and precision without strain. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience but cater to slightly different needs; while the Grape Orange emphasizes lightness and ease, the Mannan Pipefish balances lightness with a more refined touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

KTT Mannan Pipefish Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$3.53

$3.05 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Mannan Pipefish share notable similarities in their housing materials, particularly in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches boast polycarbonate tops, which are known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is primarily due to polycarbonate’s stiffer nature compared to other plastics, enhancing sound clarity and resonance. Aesthetic advantages come into play as well, given that the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting integration, making both switches suitable choices for users looking to complement their setups with vibrant lighting effects.

In contrast to their similar top housings, the Grape Orange and Mannan Pipefish diverge in their bottom housing materials. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, a classic choice that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer characteristics of nylon contribute to sound absorption, softening the auditory feedback produced when a key is pressed. This leads to a distinctly duller and rounder sound experience, which contrasts with the crispness generated by the polycarbonate top. Therefore, while both switches may exhibit similar surface-level profiles in terms of sound, the bottom housings work in tandem with the tops to define their overall acoustic signatures.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both the Huano Grape Orange and KTT Mannan Pipefish suggests a cohesive sound design where the qualities of each material complement one another. The polycarbonate top enhances higher frequencies, while the nylon bottom enriches lower frequencies, creating a balanced and nuanced auditory experience. If one were to explore either switch, they would find that the clarity of the polycarbonate paired with the warmth of the nylon results in a well-rounded typing experience, reinforcing the importance of both materials in shaping the sound and feel of the switches.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, both exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces suitable for extended use. The Grape Orange requires an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish is slightly lighter, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Mannan Pipefish is the lighter option overall, making it potentially more comfortable for lengthy typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, but the Huano Grape Orange offers a slightly heavier feel due to its higher force requirements, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feedback. Thus, while both switches deliver light actuation forces, the Mannan Pipefish stands out for its lower weights, leading to easier keystrokes.

Travel distance

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Grape Orange provides a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers looking for quicker key presses and a more immediate reaction time. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more substantial and traditional typing experience that some users prefer for its depth and tactile feedback. Ultimately, if you favor a quicker response, the Grape Orange is the better choice, while the Mannan Pipefish caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Grape Orange switch has not been explicitly described, making it difficult to ascertain its auditory characteristics. In contrast, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is characterized by a neutral sound profile, which produces a moderate auditory response during key presses. This neutrality makes it a versatile option, suitable for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. However, it's important to remember that the perceived sound can also vary based on the keyboard's construction and the materials used for keycaps.

When examining the feel of these switches, the Grape Orange switch excels in providing an effortless typing experience due to its remarkably light 40g actuation force, making it particularly suited for long typing sessions where comfort is paramount. While specific details about the Grape Orange's tactile qualities are lacking, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is known for its easy-to-press mechanism and polished finish. With a slightly higher 45g actuation force, the Pipefish offers a gentle resistance that enhances comfort and reduces fatigue. Its refined design may translate to smoother key travel, contributing to an enjoyable and low-impact typing experience.

Both the Huano Grape Orange and KTT Mannan Pipefish switches cater to users seeking a light and satisfying typing experience, particularly for prolonged use. While the Grape Orange focuses on an ultra-light actuation for effortless typing, the Mannan Pipefish combines a slightly higher actuation force with a smooth and responsive feel. Ultimately, choosing between these two options will depend on personal preferences for actuation force and tactile feedback, but both should deliver enjoyable results in everyday use.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Huano Grape Orange and KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you value an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience, particularly for long typing sessions, the Grape Orange’s ultra-low actuation force of 40 grams can make your work feel almost effortless. These switches are ideal if you prioritize minimizing finger fatigue while maximizing speed during extensive typing tasks. On the other hand, if you are looking for a slightly firmer yet still light option, the Mannan Pipefish, with its 45-gram actuation force, offers a smooth and polished feel, delivering a balanced typing experience that could suit both casual and more engaged typing scenarios. The Pipefish’s easy-to-press action ensures comfortable use, making it a great choice for casual gamers and typists alike. In terms of sound and feel, if you prefer a more neutral and versatile profile that won’t disrupt your surroundings, the Mannan Pipefish is a reliable option. Conversely, if you're seeking a lighter touch that emphasizes speed and reduces effort, the Grape Orange is the way to go. Ultimately, consider the nature of your tasks and your typing style when making your choice to enhance your overall keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

KTT Mannan Pipefish Linear

$3.53

$3.05 per 10

Learn more